Spatio-temporal regularization of global ocean waves obtained from satellite and their graphical representation

TL;DR

This paper introduces an algorithm for uniformly representing irregular satellite data of ocean waves in space and time, compares it with a model, and analyzes global swell data for 2007.

Contribution

It presents a novel algorithm for regularizing satellite ocean wave data and compares its performance with the WAVEWATCH III model.

Findings

Satellite data shows greater spatial uniformity than the WW3 model.

The model underestimates swell height in tropics and high-latitude regions.

Analysis of 2007 data reveals regional discrepancies in swell height estimation.

Abstract

An algorithm for representing irregular satellite data obtained from advanced synthetic aperture radar (ASAR) uniformly in space and time is introduced and comparison with WAVEWATCH III model (WW3) data is carried out. Swell global data for 2007 are analysed using statistical parameters such as bias and scattering index. Satellite data showed a great spatial uniformity compared with WW3 model. Results show underestimation of swell height by the model in the tropics and at specific higher latitude regions.